Empty nested...

In the last half year, Jared, our 19 year old son, was in Australia for 3 months and then China for 2 months.  Marlene and I were empty nested...and it felt weird.

But as time went on we got used to the place being just a little cleaner (our cleaning lady actually cut back her hours as she didn't have as much to do and we only had one bag of garbage going out...where we used to have 2-3).  And yes, there was just a little more freedom.

But trying to stay in touch with him, via email, Skype and the odd phone call wasn't the same...and he was out there and we were here with all the "what ifs" in our minds.

Then came the Home Coming.  We had banners, balloons, and his favourite drink ready as we picked him up from the Seattle airport.

He came up the airport escalator and when he saw us, there were hugs, smiles and even a little "eye moisture" from all of us (and yes, Marlene got the first hug).

Welcome home Jared...you have grown in so many ways!

Things we learned while Jared was away:

• Jared's cat didn't seem to miss him
• I hate doing the cat litter box
• Our grocery bill shrank
• We ate out more
• We worked longer hours
• There was no "3rd party referee" in the home
• We always had our computer on...just in case we were "skyped"
• Jared's room was always spotless
• I needed a hobby...
• We played more games
• We felt a little lonely
• We did stuff with more friends
• I hate gardening by myself
• Out little boy is a 6'2" young man who is now taller than his dad
• To release him to become the adult that he is
• Life is changing...so feel free to call us with your words of wisdom!

Your friends in the business...
Larry & Marlene